2013 Chevrolet Traverse Has Same Engine, New Look: 2012 New York Auto Show

The 2013 Chevrolet Traverse officially debuted at the 2012 New York International Auto Show this morning as the as the brand’s latest full-size crossover.

“We have injected a stronger presence into the Traverse exterior by focusing on the details. The small but important changes give it a more vibrant personality that more closely reflects the lifestyles of the families who rely on the Traverse to get them through their busy lives,” said GM director of exterior design Phillip Zak.

Exteriors with sportier styling borrowed from the likes of the Camaro are becoming a mainstay in the marque’s lineup and the Traverse is no exception. In this case, that is especially evident in the car’s taillights which have hints of the same half-moon glare as the brawny muscle car. While Chevrolet isn’t trying to send the message that the two vehicles are soul mates, the update helps the car seem tighter and less bulky.

Like the updated GMC Acadia, which we first saw at the Chicago Auto Show, the Traverse will be available with a front-center airbag to prevent passengers from crashing into each other during collisions.

Despite looking a little smaller than its predecessor thanks to the updated exterior, the incoming Traverse keeps the same dimensions as its older brother.

Size isn’t the only thing that translates between the two. The 3.6-liter V6 featuring fuel-saving direct injection technology and continuously-variable valve timing also migrates into the new model — power ratings also remain with 281 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an improved six-speed automatic transmission, the Traverse is expected to earn the best fuel-economy rating of any eight-passenger FWD utility vehicle.